Similarities and differences in teen movie genre between 1955 (assuming this is a fair representation) and the last 15 years
Connections to Denby's essay- Think about his claims about the teen movie genre.
"Do genre films reflect reality?" Are the characters of teen movies realistic or merely literary constructs- stock characters designed to portray broad generalizations, emotions, fears, fantasies, etc. of a generation?
Denby suggests that the teen movies from the turn of this century reflect the secret wishes- and geekiness- of their screenwriters and directors. What does the film Rebel without a Cause (1955) seem to say about the filmmakers of that era?
Denby argues that "geeks rule" (para. 13). Is this true? Think about your own experiences, books, and movies you have seen. (A good argument timed write!)
Assignment- Be a Film Critic!
There are actual jobs out there that let people evaluate texts and media for a living! I want you to play the role of a movie critic today. Like Siskel and Ebert, you will give Rebel without a Cause a "thumbs up" or "thumbs down."
Watch Siskel and Ebert discuss the particulars of being a film critic.
Pulp Fiction Siskel and Ebert Review
On your blog, write a review of the 1955 film Rebel without a Cause. This should be a well-written, multi-paragraph essay which includes the following information: basic film information (release date, main actors, director, studio, screenwriter(s), etc.); a BRIEF plot summary; a discussion of major characters and themes; and an evaluation based on portrayal of reality, depth, and overall effect.
Anchor Text
"High-School Confidential: Notes on Teen Movies" by David Denby
Rebel without a Cause
Socratic Discussion
Spend 10 minutes preparing for discussion.Suggested Discussion Topics:
Assignment- Be a Film Critic!
There are actual jobs out there that let people evaluate texts and media for a living! I want you to play the role of a movie critic today. Like Siskel and Ebert, you will give Rebel without a Cause a "thumbs up" or "thumbs down."Watch Siskel and Ebert discuss the particulars of being a film critic.
Pulp Fiction Siskel and Ebert Review
On your blog, write a review of the 1955 film Rebel without a Cause. This should be a well-written, multi-paragraph essay which includes the following information: basic film information (release date, main actors, director, studio, screenwriter(s), etc.); a BRIEF plot summary; a discussion of major characters and themes; and an evaluation based on portrayal of reality, depth, and overall effect.
Examples of Film Reviews
//John Carter//- //LA Times////A Thousand Words//- //NY Times//
Never Been Kissed- NY TImes
Mean Girls- NY Times
//The Vow//- //Chicago Sun Times//, Roger Ebert
//Rebel without a Cause- Chicago Sun Times//, Roger Ebert
Deadline
This review is due on your blog by Thursday, March 29.